Loveland Pass

 

 

 

IMG_2082We headed west on I-70 toward the exit for Loveland Pass.  The Rockies along the spine of the continent loomed overhead.

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Heading up the pass.

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We stopped at the summit.  The pass is at 11,990 feet.  We walked up a small hill to reach 12,000 feet.

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Avalanche control is done using long range weaponry in this part of the world.

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Skiers and snowboarders were riding fresh powder in the bowls and basis to the north of Loveland Pass along the continental divide.

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These two vertical lines on Mount Bethel north of Loveland Pass were very curious-looking.  We couldn’t tell what caused them to be so straight.  Satellite imagery of the area makes it look very man-made.  According to the internet, it has two snow fences to protect I-70.  One of these days I think I will hike up the mountain to see just exactly what makes those two lines.

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At 12,000 feet.

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A 360 degree panorama from the summit.  The approach from the east side of the continental divide is in the middle of the photo.

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Heading down the west side of the continental divide.

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Looking toward the western drainage and the Pacific Ocean.

STA_2144 - STI_2152_fusedOne of the many ski resorts that dot the mountains along the continental divide.

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Looking toward the mountains that loom over Breckenridge.